Dedicated, reprogrammable Help button displays information on LCD
Capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards (not included)
Average
Customer Rating :
Editorial Review :
K2000 w/18-55 Lens and AF200FG Flash Kit. 10.2 MP is compatible with any Pentax lens ever made. Shake Reduction. A user-friendly tools such as a dedicated Help button. Advanced Auto Picture mode takes the guesswork out of your pictures by automatically selecting the best mode to use for a given situation. 2.7 inch high resolution LCD monitor featuring wide angle viewing of up to 170 degree allows for easy image review. High ISO of 3200 allows faster shutter speeds in lower lighting to freeze subject action, while making the most of ambient light. includes widely available long life Energizer AA Lithium batteries for oustanding runtime. One of the smallest and lightest DSLR cameras available allows one handed operation.
Customer Review :
Best of both worlds
I've had a Pentax K1000 for 30 years, but as my life got complicated I had less and less time to enjoy photography. Enter my new K2000. Suddenly photography is fun again! It's actually a little smaller than the K1000, but I can still fit my rather big fingers around it nicely. Full-auto features mean I can point-and-shoot whenever I just want a snapshot, but I can still take total control of as much of the process as I like.
This camera is everything I hoped it would be: compact, easy to use, and works well with my old lenses. It took a few minutes to find out how to use my old lenses--the secret's on page 241 of the very detailed operating manual--but it's actually quite easy. I've only had the camera a few days and only shot a couple hundred frames so far, but it's done everything I've wanted. And I've only tried about 10% of the settings.
Something I didn't realize until after purchase is the CCD chip is smaller than a 35mm film frame by about 1/3. So a 200mm lens works like a 300 mm lens on 35mm film, and the 18-55mm lens that comes with it is like a 27-83mm lens on film. Another thing I didn't realize is that my old "manual" lenses, without exception, offered lower F-ratios than equivalent new digital ones. Perfect for low-light shooting.
So if you're an old SLR shooter like me, or if you've simply outgrown your point-and-shoot camera, this is an excellent next camera.
Rating :
Thoughly Enjoy This Camera
This camera takes excellent pictures both outdoors and indoors. The menu is easy to access. Buttons are similiar to other Pentax cameras. The largest print I make is a 5 x 7. Noise is minimal, even at ISO 3200 indoors. I went to a museum and took some shots using the museum setting (no flash), again great pictures. I use an 18 - 200 zoom lense. When using the flash I do have to be careful not to zoom. I have had a few pictures come out to dark because I was beyond the range of the flash. However, using a higher ISO takes care of this problem, or just moving in closer. I use AA Lithium Ultimate batteries. I haven't used up a set yet, I've used them before and am sure they will last for over a thousand pictures. Camera is always ready, I don't need to worry about charging batteries. Sure there are additional features available on more expensive cameras, but I'm not willing to pay the money. I don't strive to be any type of professional photographer. I just wanted a camera that would take better quality pictures at higher ISOs than compact point and shoot cameras. This one is it. I've used some of the maual settings with success, a fun camera!
Rating :
Pentax K2000 Camera
One of the best purchases I have ever made online. I would like thank Amazon and Amos for this. Its been a ruff start to 2010 for this Man. I purchased the camera to replace the Pentax Lens I broke for our 35mm Pentax Camera. My wife being the camera person of the house says that it's professional grade. For me to find it through Amazon was a true Blessing. Thank you Dad for looking over me. At such an affordable price to boot. My Wife is every pleased with her camera. I have been saved by you two Amazon and Amos.I thank you for the professional way you two do things. As like me am sure others have found out that its not always the case. Let the buyer beware. For those out there you will not find replacement Lenes for your 35mm. Trust me I've tried. I did find a plce to repair the lens though. That being Wolf Camera where I bought the camera. Everyone has gone Digital. Thank you all and I look forward to needing your servifces in the future.
Rating :
Excellent DSLR
This is my first DLSR, I upgraded from a point-and-shoot. Just handling the Pentax K2000 you can feel a significant construction quality difference versus the Canon XSi or Nikon D40. Of course, the D40 has no auto-focus motor and the Canon Rebel series doesn't have the in-body shake reduction, but on top of that, the Pentax has a nicer build and more logical button layout.
DPReview.com has a great in-depth review of the K2000 that shows the sensor noise is quite good at high ISO speeds compared to other cameras in its class. The default setting works well - the camera will auto-select an ISO between 100 to 800. At 1600 there is visible degradation that I think starts to ruin the photo. There is no auto-select setting between ISO 800 and 1600 but if you switch over to Sv mode (sensitivity priority) you can shoot at ISO 1100 and it is still acceptable IMO.
The built-in flash has a nice color temperature. I pop it outdoors when shooting sunny scenes and faces get darkened by shadows. You can dial -2.0 to +1.0 on the flash power which is very handy: trimming back to -2.0 or -1.5 faces are lit but it doesn't look like flash was used at all.
The external AF200FG flash isn't too useful to me. I don't like the harsh shadows of any flash when it is a primary light source. Outdoors in direct sun when subjects are more than 15 feet away and you want to light up faces the built-in flash is useless, so the AF200FG can throw more light BUT the flash sync speed is max'd at 1/180 sec. This means the shutter can't open, fire the flash, and close any faster than that. In direct sun a 1/180 exposure means you either have to shoot pin-hole apertures like F22 or use a 4-stop neutral-density filter to get down around F5.6-F8.0. Lack of high-speed flash sync is a drawback IMO.
The camera produces extremely well-toned, bright photos right out of the box. Color saturation, white balance, and accuracy are all superb. Like most digital photos, they are somewhat soft (google: demosaicing if you are curious why) so I generally bump up the contrast and sharpness in my post processing. But even untouched, the photos look great.
The recommended Lithium Ion AA's work for about 1000 photos as promised. For me, I have been taking 1000 photos a month, so after 2 sets of $11 batteries, I bought rechargeable NiMH, which work equally well - so far they last as long as the Lithiums.
I highly recommend getting the Pentax FA 50mm F/1.4 lens. The viewfinder will be much brighter, you can autofocus in very low light, and take some stunning portraits with beautiful bokeh. I bought the lens and camera at the same time and the 50mm 1.4 has been on 99% of the time. The kit lens just doesn't produce as impressive of photos and I only attach it to do a wide-angle shot in tight spaces. The 50/1.4 is THE best of the "fast fifties" according to LuminousLandscape.com and I think it would be a shame to plunk down $500 for a camera and not spend the $200 for a truly excellent lens to compliment. I tell people who compliment my photos that it is 75% due to the lens and 25% camera.
Lack of autofocus points (only 5) and indication (which one is active) is the biggest drawback on this camera. I have ruined a couple photos because I didn't compose the subject right in the center and instead got a pin-sharp wall and blurry faces. The technique I have to use to compensate is I now reprogram the AF button to "cancel AF". I point at the subject, depress the shutter halfway to focus, then lock the AF with my thumb on the AF button, then compose the shot and release. There is NO indication in the viewfinder which AF point is selected, so I find its best to program it to always use the center.
The big LCD screen is nice, and I really like Pentax's layout of the camera settings on the status screen. MUCH nicer looking than the competition. The look and feel of a Pentax is just so much nicer than a Nikon or Canon, I will never regret doing my homework and selecting a Pentax.
Rating :
Not as described
The camera was shipped as requested to my son's place very promptly. however, the ad did not tell you that the built in flash on the camera did not function. I feel it was a rather misleading. But when I received it the 30 day return had gone by.
Compatible with high-capacity Memory Stick PRO Duo, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo and SD/SDHC media (sold separately)
Average
Customer Rating :
Editorial Review :
Two-Lens Outfit - Includes 18-55mm & 55-200mm Lenses!
Sony aDSLR-A200: more features, less blur.
For family photographers who want greater quality and creativity, the Sony aDSLR-A200 combines high-resolution 10.2 MP, simple operation, high sensitivity (ISO 3200), advanced noise reduction and convenient Creative Style settings. SteadyShot INSIDE in-camera image stabilization works with every lens, including Sony zoom, advanced Sony G-Series, pro-quality Carl Zeiss lens designs and Minolta ±-mount lenses. Stamina power provides up to 750 shots on a fully charged InfoLITHIUM battery. Eye-Start Autofocus and pop-up flash help you shoot faster -- and a bright 2.7-inch LCD screen displays index and high-resolution thumbnail images.
Model Features: 10.2 megapixel, SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization, on-screen Help Guide, Graphic Display, 2.7-inch Clear Photo LCD Plus display, high sensitivity ISO 3200, 18-55mm standard zoom lens
Capture your precious moments with improved clarity and reduced blur with the Sony a DSLR-A230 digital SLR camera. Brimming with features, the a A230 combines high-resolution 10.2 MP, simple operation, high sensitivity (ISO 3200), and advanced noise reduction. Plus, Eye-Start Autofocus and pop-up flash help you shoot faster while SteadyShot INSIDE in-camera image stabilization works with virtually every lens. In addition to the on-screen Help Guide and convenient Creative style settings, the a A230Y has a bright 2.7-inch LCD and comes with an 18-55mm standard zoom lens.
SteadyShot INSIDE in-camera image stabilization SteadyShot INSIDE DSLR-A200: more features, less blur. For family photographers who want greater quality and creativity, the Sony a; (alpha) DSLR-A200 combines high-resolution 10.2 MP, simple operation, high sensitivity (ISO 3200), advanced noise reduction and convenient Creative Style settings. SteadyShot INSIDE in-camera image stabilization works with every lens, including Sony zoom
Customer Review :
Sony Alpha DSLR 230
My original intention was simple: purchase a reasonably priced digital camera without video that included, in one lens, an adequate wide angle and generous telephoto capacity. The megazooms neatly fulfilled these requirements. However, their poor picture quality and video feature eliminated them from consideration. So, I explored the entry level DSLR category and eventually bought the A230 two lens package which I have owned for about a month. The experience has been both satisfying and frustrating. Picture quality is pretty good but, the 55-200 zoom doesn't extend far enough. The purchase of a longer lens maybe necessary.
Pros: Good picture quality, helpful LCD screen graphic display, comfortable small grip. Cons: No live view, slow continuous shooting.
I would recommend the A230 to beginners and advanced amateurs making the transition to a DSLR camera.
Rating :
Great Value, Not For Large Hands
After years of using Minolta and Canon SLRs, I had wanted a DSLR for a long time... but had a limited budget. The Alpha 230 is a great discovery in this sense, because you have almost all the pro features you need, including a very nice ISO range that goes up to 3200, plus two quality zoom lenses, for around 500 bucks.
That's the essence, but let me start with my first impressions... As soon as I pulled it out of the box and held it in my right hand, it felt too small. I can't hold it quite as firmly as my other cameras. I asked my girlfriend to hold it, and Voila! Perfect Fit. So I guess this camera is highly recommended for Cinderella photographers. So much, that I immediately looked into the Accesories catalogue for a Vertical grip, which usually makes the camera much larger... and found that Sony has three options, neither of which is compatible with the A230. I think that if I still lived in the USA, I would've returned this for another Sony Alpha that's a little larger (and a little more expensive) like the A300. But I'm in Colombia, and I just paid an additional 90 bucks just to get my big ol' hands on this baby, so I'm gonna have to get used to it. That said, I am aware that in most cases the main support for the camera's weight is actually my left hand, making its awkwardly small size a reminder of the proper way to hold a camera...
Since I first tried it out at night, one of the first things I tried out were the high ISO settings... and they were simply awesome for night shooting. Of course, when you push it too much you get noticeable noise, but that was no surprise... I was trying to shoot my cat in virtually NO light and no flash. The menus are really nice, helping you graphically to achieve the exposure you want. Using the camera in manual mode is comfortable, since both aperture and shutter speed are on the same wheel; you just switch between the two by pressing the +- button with your thumb. Construction is plastic, but feels very sold and durable. And the camera is actually heavier than it looks (but that's because it looks so small to me). Battery life seems quite good but still don't have reliable info on that.
I appreciated the in-depth, printed manual... I know it's not very eco-friendly, but those damn PDF manual are no good when you suddenly blank out in the middle of a shoot and can't remember how to the custom white balance works, for example.
Next related purchases: A decent flash unit (possibly using an adaptor for the sucky proprietary hot shoe), a carrying case that doesn't cost half the camera's price (in other words, not from Sony), and a filter kit, mostly to protect the lenses.
Oh, and Amazon't free shipping is the best. It arrived to my Miami address two days before the estimated delivery date.
Rating :
Love it!
Just a great camera. Really good camera for the beginners who want to learn and understand photography. You can still make great pictures in auto mode when you're lazy. And it's easy to use manual modes because interface is really comfortable. And you can see all the explanations of the function there as you use them. Good results in difficult conditions - bad\no light, sport events e.t.c Good battery life. Actually never saw a low battery sign even after two days full of pictures. Although I usally don't use flash. The camera is light and small compared to other SLR cameras that was really important for me. Lense kit is good and light. Although I don't have anything to compare it to. Love it. One of my best purchases.
Rating :
Solid Entry Level DSLR
I've owned Sony a230 for more than a month now. Totally satisfied with the camera. It takes great pictures and very easy to use.
This being my first DSLR, I'm pretty much overwhelmed with the quality.
Have mostly taken pictures in Auto mode with 18-55mm and 75-300mm lenses. Loved the telephoto(75-300mm) lens, which is a must for any dslr.
As of June2010, Only Sony DSLRs can take 16:9 photos that could fill your wide-screen TV. With other cameras, there would be two black bars on the sides.
Rating :
Amazing Camera
I am a novice photographer looking to improve my skills. The only issue I have with this camera is Sony's lack of expansion options for it. The next higher Alphas have the ability to attach a lower grip for extended battery life. The lense choises are very broad, but again, less than that of it's big brothers. I'd say if you are a novice with no aspirations for becoming pro, this camera is easy to use and very functional. If you are planning to take the next step, this camera's lack of accessories and a lack of the typical Sony support for this product may be your limiting factors.
Kit includes: ♦ 1) Canon Digital Rebel XS 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera (Black) ♦ 2) Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Zoom Lens ♦ 3) Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Lens ♦ 4) Transcend 16GB Ultra Speed SecureDigital SDHC Class 6 Card ♦ 5) (2x) Vivitar 58mm UV Glass Filters ♦ 6) (2x) Spare LP-E5 Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery Pack ♦ 7) Precision Design Deluxe 6 Piece Lens & Digital SLR Cleaning Kit
The Canon EOS Rebel XS Digital Camera incorporates a 10.1 megapixel CMOS sensor; enhanced sensitivity up to ISO 1600; High-ISO Noise Reduction; Auto Image Optimization technology; and a precise 7-point autofocus system. The large, 2.5-inch LCD monitor makes it a pleasure to review images and scroll through menus. The Live View feature allows you to frame shots using the LCD screen rather than the viewfinder. Canon's Integrated Self Cleaning System removes dust automatically from the sensor using ultrasonic vibration.
The Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens is designed with Canon's Optical Image Stabilizer technology while retaining the compactness and lightness of previous models. Its stabilization allows sharp hand-held shots at shutter speeds up to four stops slower than otherwise possible.
The Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Zoom Lens is a compact and lightweight 4x telephoto zoom lens ideal for shooting sports, portraits, and wildlife.
Take more high-resolution pictures faster with this Transcend 16GB Ultra Speed SecureDigital SDHC Class 6 Card.
This Vivitar UV Filter is a multi-purpose, fine-weather filter that is designed to optimize your photography experience
Increase your shooting capacity with this powerful LP-E5 Lithium-ion rechargeable battery.
This 6-piece cleaning kit contains everything you'll ever need to properly clean your lenses.
12.1-megapixel 4/3-type MOS sensor; world's first Micro Four Thirds camera
Includes Lumix G Vario 14 - 45 mm F3.5 - F5.6 ASPH.Mega OIS lens
Live View Finder and bright 460,000-dot resolution, 3.0-inch LCD
New Contrast AF (Auto Focus) function; Face Detection and Intelligent Auto (iA) mode
Capture images to SD/SDHC/Multimedia cards (not included)
Average
Customer Rating :
Editorial Review :
The LUMIX G1 Ultra-Compact Digital Interchangeable Lens camera is as easy to use as a compact digital camera. It's a new-generation digital interchangeable lens camera that does away with the mirror box and complies with the new Micro Four Thirds System standard. It also features Full-time Live View for compact digital camera shooting ease and iA Intelligent Auto) for beautiful photos with point-and-shoot simplicity. In short, the G1 writes an entirely new chapter in the evolution of the digital interchangeable lens camera.
Customer Review :
not to shabby
I bought this as an alternative to the larger bulkier DSLR cameras. Was not really looking for a micro 4/3 type camera just one that was a step above point and shoot and without the annoying heft of the rest of the DSLR market. I found the perfect camera with the DMC-G1. It is built rock solid. Has a great screen that swings out and rotates to open and then close to protect the screen. Also helps when taking low down macro shots or when holding the camera up high over a crowd.
The picture quality is terrific. The "iA" or Intelligent Automatic mode is great when you do not feel like adjusting settings or when you pass the camera to a lesser techno-savvy friend. I am not a good photographer at all but this thing seems to make most of my shots look I must know what I am doing. To be honest I have been getting great compliments on my pictures, however, I am not doing anything different than when I used my old crappy camera. If upgrading from a point and shoot this camera will make you want to study how to improve your skills. I found myself many a night up late on [...] learning new tips and tricks.
This camera comes with some pretty good software also. "PhotoFunStudio" to import and manage and "Silky-pix" to optimize and develop your RAW images. Yes this camera does shoot in RAW format as well as JPEG. It takes some practice to get good at Silky-pix but you can do some pretty cool stuff with it.
Check out my flickr page to view photos taken with my G1.
[...]
Overall VERY happy with my choice. great price on amazon too.
Rating :
Very pleased thus far
I have been shooting with Panasonic's FZ superzooms (FZ20, FZ28) and have been pleased enough with the photos to exhibit them locally. Having decided to begin doing wedding photography and having found the G1 kit and the 45-200 zoom on sale, I decided to purchase them for that purpose. In my experience the Panasonics produce very flattering portraits, but can also be adjusted for increased contrast.
I took the G1 with me to Alaska this month to put it to the test. I shot in aperture mode exclusively using the "standard film" setting and exposure auto-bracketing. My ISO settings varied between 100 and 400.
All of the shots of my traveling companions look great. Alaska summers are mostly cloudy, resulting in dull pictures before editing; however, the photos cleaned up nicely with minimal editing. The photos show no evidence of digital noise and far less clipping of highlights than my FZ28.
Pros: The camera powers up very quickly and the lenses zoom quicly and smoothly. With the kit lens I was able to hand hold shots at shutter speed 1/10" and at 1/40" with the 45-200 even on the water (traveling at slow speeds). The OIS system more than compensates for the somewhat slow lenses. The camera was easy on the battery; I purchased one spare, which was enough, but I also used the viewfinder rather than the LCD and turned off the features I don't use. The G1 is light and small but feels nice in the hand. It is good in low light; I used the flash less than ten times. I changed the lenses over and over with no sign of dust on the sensor. The camera is equipped to accomodate a hot-shoe flash. I was able to turn off the auto-focus assist lamp and didn't miss it.
Cons: The electronic viewfinder shows noise when being used near other electronic equipment and in low light, which is not a problem with my FZ 20 or 28. The built-in flash is minimally useful, but then it's rarely needed.
Before digital photography I spent 20 years shooting with an Olympus OM10 and have sorely missed it after weating it and the lenses out. I finally feel completely at home with this camera; I just ignore the features I don't use. This is what I've been waiting for.
Rating :
Love It!
I'm new to the fancy camera space, but I did a lot of research on this and others like it, including standard DSLR. It came down to this vs. the Nikon D90. Ultimately I went with this because of: - price: I got refurbished, so it was significantly less costly - style: I really like the red body - size: It's great how much lighter it is than standard DSLRs.
The main reason I wanted the Nikon was it says it performs better in low light, and I can believe it. This one doesn't do great; it gets noisy like others have noted. But it's hard to fault it given all its pluses.
Anyways, the bottom line is that it's as great as everyone else says it is. I'm obviously not a pro, but in most cases, the auto makes me look like one. I've never seen such high quality photos that I've taken--sometimes it seems more real than when I was actually looking at the subject.
The menu system is super easy to use; love the switch up top to the different control approaches and presets. The switcher dial in front is just rightly placed. The articulated LCD is great--you can keep it closed most of the time to protect it, save battery, and just use the viewfinder, but if you want to review/show others or take a weird angle, it helps a lot.
I particularly like taking outdoors, macro, and architecture. Looking forward to playing with filters. I used it to take employee photos of my company (125 people), and they came out great.
The lens it comes with is actually really versatile; very nice wide angle at its shortest length; in my ideal world, it would zoom more. I plan to get the pancake lens when I can spend the additional $$, and then maybe the longer zoom lens at some point.
I'm thrilled with this purchase; it was a great birthday gift to myself. :)
Rating :
G-1 Still is Relevant as 2011 approaches!
Keeping it brief, the G-1 still is capable of producting pictures as good as entry level DSLRs in and around its price range. With the 14-45mm lens it is just about as good as the G-2 with its new 14-42mm lens...a bit more noise and no touch screen or video, but, if you take images and want to save $$ buy this while you can.
Rating :
Wish I Had This Camera A Year Ago!
I love this camera! It's controls seem very natural to me and I took great photos with it right out of the box (after charging the battery of course)!
12.34 megapixels - Closes gap with professional film quality images
Improved natural skin tones
New Facial Detection Technology
Accepts many Nikon AF lenses and flashguns!
Average
Customer Rating :
Editorial Review :
Includes Fuji Finepix S5 Pro Digital Camera body (Nikon AF mount lenses and Compact Flash memory cards are separate purchase) Rechargeable Li-ion battery NP-150 Battery charger BC-150 Shoulder strap Camera body cap Eyepiece cap LCD cover USB cable(mini- B) Video cable Accessory shoe cover Synchronizing terminal cap Remote release socket cap CD-ROM with image browser with CCD-RAW converting function.
Customer Review :
Dont Know
Never recieved item even as I paid for it. Can not review an item I never got.
Rating :
One trick Pony!
I've been using DSLRs for 4 years now, but have primarily been an Olympus (four-thirds) user. I love the system for its lenses and feature packed bodies at lower price points. However, the one area where 4/3s always had an issue was high ISO and DR; when I read about the S5 Pro, it seemed like the "magic bullet", resolving both these issues at once.
For starters, I used the camera for a month and compared it to my Olympus E30 to see if I was really gaining anything substantial. After much assessment I decided to keep my E-30 and sell off the S5 Pro. Without belabouring the point, let me get down to the pros and cons,
PROS: 1. Excellent build quality 2. Great ergonomics 3. Phenomenal DR in JPEGs and highlight headroom in RAW files. 4. Very nice and pleasing colours. 5. WB is generally very accurate.
CONS: 1. High ISO noise is no better than the Olympus E-30. 2. Noise reduction in JPEGs is very aggressive. 3. Resolution is not equivalent to 12MP, the E-30 easily bests it. 4. Colours and skin tones, although pleasing are more suited to Caucasian skin. 5. Menu system is very complicated. 6. Playback and image zoom require too many button presses. 7. Battery life is low. 8. If DR is left on 'Auto', the camera slows down. 9. RAW files too large and best used with native software only. 10. Native software doesn't support DNG.
Olympus fixed a lot of issues with the E-30 and it really shows when comparing it to the S5 Pro; yes, the S5 has phenomenal amounts of highlight headroom that the E-30 can never come close to, but this is useful only when you constantly shoot in very high DR scenes or get the exposure wrong (overexpose).
In terms of colour, I think both the E-30 and S5 are neck and neck, although when using higher ISOs, the E-30 seems to retain colour better. This seems to happen because of the fact that as you ramp up the ISO, after a certain point the R pixels are turned off and only the S pixels are used. Also, this variance in colour is more visible when using a RAW converter other than Hyper-Utility or Finepix viewer, clearly the S5 is best used only with it's native software. This is a big minus for me as I use LR for all my cataloguing and RAW processing.
The S5 files are uncompressed and huge, so they are best managed when converted to DNG, however this means neither Hyper-Utility nor Finepix viewer can process these files for you. Also, when processing files in LR, the colours vary a lot from ISO to ISO, which means, if you plan on using LR/ACR, you are better of building your own colour profiles for different ISOs under different lighting conditions, this is a tedious affair.
To summarize, the S5 Pro is a camera that offers superior highlight headroom, DR and colours straight out of the box and is an excellent tool for photographers that don't like spending too much time processing and colour correcting RAW files. However, in my opinion, the unmatched highlight headroom in the RAW files is the only thing which differentiates the S5 from today's cameras. Cameras like the Olympus E-30 produce excellent colours, good DR and are getting better at high ISO as well. Also, when you consider the bloated selling price of these cameras, it only makes sense to consider more current options in the market which may serve you just as well or maybe even better.
Rating :
My S5 Pro
I finally bought the S5 Pro after a long wait for the price to drop, i am the owner of Fuji S2, S3 pro for a long time and still..I have no doubt that S5 will exceed the previous models. Indeed it is a much better camera. The build is nicely solid, fast respond, heavy and feel great in my hands. I have read many reviews on this S5, people complained about its back focus issue!? I found no problem at all. I can only suggest people to read the manual throughout 1st before using the camera, one must know all the functions of this camera..The AF is more advance than the S2&S3, it got many settings on it. As far as picture quality , OMG! it is totally awesome. the color is so smooth and so pleasing, the details is so attractive, not to mention very nice noise control at high iso, the sharpness come from your lens, but i love all about Fuji image quality, it is the best i've seen, and i have owned about 20 digital cameras already. To bad Fuji stop making DSLR, otherwise i would buy their next model. But i have faith that Fuji will return 1 day.. Strongly suggest anyone who cares for IQ rather than speed. S5 is a fast enough camera. But you will be happy with the end result. I sell prints , i dont sell speed. Infact, i dont wear shirt that say Canon or Fuji, i wear shirt that say Jesus save!!!!.. Thnxs
Rating :
Looks like it is now officially discontinued.
Much improved over the previous version S3 Pro in terms of ease of use. The larger display screen is nice and the menu is much improved.
Although the AA batteries of the previous version had its advantages, I prefer the lithion ion battery system of this version.
The actual results is not that much of an improvement -- pixel count and ccd sizes remain the same.
Rating :
The best quality for the least money of any professional camera
I have owned the S-2 S-3 and have now owned the S-5 since it was released, I think in 2006. The colors,dynamic range and tonality were far Superior to any pro camera that would cost twice the money and still they lagged behind the quality curve( the S-5 is not a fast camera). I have since bought and sold a Nixon D200 that really disappointed me.
When I have to take only one camera I leave the Canon D40 at home and take the Fuji S-5.
The saddest time in digital photography came when Fuji decided to not continue in the Pro Digital market. If Nikon had had some smart leadership they would have had Fuji develop sensor technology for them.
Its a shame to see one of the finest engineering teams just working on Prosumer product lines. I will always be a Fuji advocate even though they no longer support the Fuji S-5.
Question : What is the cheapest way to get a digital SLR camera?
And don't say steal it!I am a student photographer, and I used a standard canon digital camera, but I wan't something with more optical zoom that can be digital. I already have a canon film slr that my mom used to have, and frankly it is quite old and a hassle to carry around. I decided it might be best if I went ahead and invested in an slr, but i know those are extremely pricey! So, do you know where the best deals are for slr cameras, both on and offline?Or, if not, do you know what the best slr STYLED digital cameras are that are out there?Thank you so much!
Answer:
Depending on how serious you are into photography and what type of photography you are doing. I would personally recommend a second hand or refurbished digital SLR for starters. I bought mine second hand and paid only 1/4th of the original price.I own Canon EOS 10D,you can see some of my photography on my website.Then for the lens, the only problem with second hand is to be very very careful. You'll need to check and make sure that the glass has no marks and there is no dust inside, otherwise buy a new lens. Oh as you said you have a canon film slr, if it has autofocus lenses, you can use them with the digital slr so buy a body only and use existing lenses.Also note that, because the digital slr doesn't have sensor same size as 35mm, so whichever lens you use, you have to multiply it by 1.6 so for example 17mm lens will be converted to approx 27mm on digital slr.Hope this helps.P.S. : To start a photography as a student, none of the compact digital or bridge cameras will help, u'll need digital slr (depending on how serious you are as i said). Otherwise yes there are some digital bridge cameras which provides you with almost all features of an SLR but too slow and quality is not same. A canon bridge camera for example is Canon PowerShot G series or Canon PowerShot S2IS.
Question : what would be a good digital slr camera for a beginner?
I am interested in photography as a hobby and I am just a beginner. What would be a good digital slr camera to start out with? I don't want something too cheap but it doesn't have to be fancy either.
Answer:
OK here is my short answer. for digital I have a Nikon D40 and I love it. The D40 has a full manual mode, Flexible progam, aperature priority, shutter priority modes. These are the same modes on all DSLR. It also has several other programed modes for things like portrait, night, children etc. As a photographer improves and learnds to use metering better these additional modes seldom get used so they are usually found on the more amature cameras and seen as not needed on the professional cameras. I feel I have a fair amount of experience as a photographer and it performs well for me but I can give it to my 12 y/o grandson if set on program and he can get good usable pictures as well. His photography is improving as he is already learning to use many of the functions himself ( yes I'm a proud granpa) . I also would not get caught up in the megapixel hype and instead look at the entire sensor issue. Look at the article I linked below The D40 will do everything a beginner to intermediate photographer needs at a great price. It comes with an 18-55 lens. It will let you use any other money to buy more accessories. And by the time you outgrow it cameras will have advanced to the point that most of what is on the market now would be obsolete. I bought a D300 last year and only had a it a few months when the D700 came out. The canon would also serve you well but I am a Nikon person so I suggest them. I have friends that are very happy with thier canon's and take great photos. You will have others that like Pentax and Olympus and they are not bad cameras but if they were in the same ballpark you would see many more professional photographers use them
Question : What is a good digital SLR camera to buy for an amateur photographer?
I want to upgrade to a digital camera and I was wondering what would be a good one to go with for an amateur photographer. I like the Cannon Rebel line of cameras but I was wondering what a more affordable option might be. What are your thoughts on the Pentax K100d. I learned on a Pentax K1000 and I read that most of the older lenses will fit the Pentax digital SLR cameras.
Answer:
I believe the K100D and K100D Super have been discontinued. Newer models are the K10D and K20D. Pentax is still using the venerable K-mount it introduced in 1975 so any older K-mount manual focus lens can be used with the newest DSLR cameras. There will be limited functionality (manual focus, stop-down metering) but they will enjoy the benefits of image stabilization since Pentax placed it in the camera body. If you have several K-mount lenses in good condition then buy the Pentax DSLR.Since Sony bought the DSLR line from Konica-Minolta in 2006, the Sony Alpha (A) series cameras use the Minolta A-mount introduced with the Minolta Maxxum AF 35mm film camera of 1985. So any Maxxum AF lens will be right at home on the Sony A200 or A350 or A700. Sony also incorporates image stabilization in the camera body.
Question : Do all digital SLR cameras allow you to blur the background of a photo? What about shutter delay?
I know w/film SLR cameras you can blur the background; can you do the same w/all digital SLR cameras?Also do all digital SLR cameras allow you to take photos w/out a delay in the shutter?THANKS IN ADVANCE!
Answer:
Blur the background.. you're talking about depth of field? Yes, you should be able to do that with any digital slr; keep in mind though, if you are using autofocus, the camera is going to try to determine itself what you are trying to focus on. Switch to manual focusing and you can focus strictly on foreground objects, which should become blurred. The farther back they are, the more intense the blur. Different lenses will also affect this.As for the no delay in shutter speed, what do you mean exactly? That when you press the shutter button, the camera takes the picture instantaneously without having to think first? You just need to make sure the camera doesn't have any thinking to do before taking the picture - hold the shutter button in halfway to allow it to autofocus, then press fully when ready, OR switch to manual mode.
Question : What kind of Digital SLR camera should i buy?
I want to get a digital SLR camera and planning on spending about $500, but i dont know which one i should get. I have been seeing XSi on some DSLR and some that don't have it on it. What does it mean? What is the better brand that i should get?
Answer:
you can consider buying Nikon D3000 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lenshttp://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002JCSV5I?ie=UTF8&tag=bestdeals-y-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&cr eative=390957&creativeASIN=B002JCSV5ICanon Rebel XS 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens# DIGIC III image processor provides fast, accurate image processing; Live View Function# EOS Integrated Cleaning system and Canon-designed Self Cleaning Sensor Unit, plus Dust Delete Data Detection in included softwarehttp://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001CBKJGG?ie=UTF8&tag=bestdeals-y-20&linkCode=as2&camp=178 9&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001CBKJGGyou can find more options herehttp://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fie%3DU TF8%26redirect%3Dtrue%26ref_%3Dsr%255Fnr%255Fn%255F0%26keywords%3Ddslr%26bbn%3D281052%26qid%3D126338 2072%26rnid%3D281052%26rh%3Dn%253A172282%252Ck%253Adslr%252Cn%253A%2521493964%252Cn%253A502394%252Cn %253A281052%252Cn%253A3017941&tag=bestdeals-y-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=390957
Question : Digital SLR?
I'm going to be looking for a digital SLR soon. Price is not a concern (within reason of coarse).What are some good recommendations? I would prefer to stay away from Nikon (I really don't like them), and I learn more towards Canon.As of now I have a Canon Powershot S3 IS. If I buy lenses for it, will I also be able to use them on a new Canon SLR?
Answer:
It's perfectly all right if you don't like Nikon - I think Nikon made a pretty good camera but I think since you have already in the Canon camp, might as well as stick in it. Well, you probably won't be able to port your existing camera's accessories to your DSLR when you finally get one, but the user interface will be very much similar from the S3 IS to the DSLR so I'm pretty sure you'll adapt pretty easily.Don't worry about add ons/accessories. There are actually more accessories for Canon than there is for Nikon. Not by far of course because they are both pretty popular.The S3 IS is not an SLR and if you buy an add on for the S3 IS, you won't be able to use them into any Canon SLR. Now the camera itself. I have the Canon XTi and I liked it pretty much. It does everything I want it to do, and it produces good images. The only thing I hated about it is that itty bitty tiny grip that made an otherwise good camera felt like a toy.I'm in the process of saving up on getting the new 40D - after I replace my kit lens that is - and since I have tried it on a camera shop before, I know that the 40D is a pretty awesome camera.Although a little bit outdated (and replaced by the 40D), the 30D is still a very good camera and you also want to look into it.My advice, go to a real camera store and try things for yourself. Just say the clerk that you want to try the camera first before buying. I'm sure he'll understand.
Question : What Digital SLR camera should I buy to get started with photography?
Hi, I'm 15 years old and have recently been saving up a lot of money. I have been looking in to buying a Digital SLR camera and taking a course in photography. I was just wondering what camera you would recommend I should buy with my £500 budget bearing in mind I need to purchase lenses and extra storage devices...
Answer:
Depending on whether you feel comfortable chasing down used equipment or not, it is possible to get a pretty comprehensive selection of kit.Used prices for a Canon 30D are around £250-300, which is a decent bargain for what you get. It's not going to take your hand and lead your through how to take photographs like the most modern entry level SLRs, but it's purposeful, fast, and dependable. This camera is quite well suited with the Canon EF-S 17-85mm lens for most normal purposes, this should bring your cost up to around £400. The next thing to get is probably the Canon 50mm f1.8 'Nifty Fifty', and a reasonably strong tripod.I would imagine that 4GB of storage is enough, but you do need a fast card, probably 30 MB/s or faster would be needed. I would also go for 2x 2GB, formatted in the FAT16 file system to squeeze some more speed out of it, and also allows you some flexibility if one fails or gets confiscated for some reason.
Question : Can anyone advised what's the best digital slr camera should i choose for a beginner like me?
I'm starting to love photography. I have a Fuji S7000 and a Canon ixus70. Been taking photos for relatives and friends in weddings, birthday parties and families outdoor activities such as BBQ parties for the last 2 years. Thought of getting myself a digital slr camera to explore more on best photography.
Answer:
If you aren't invested in lenses for an SLR then I suggest looking seriously at the Sony A100 and Pentax K100D Super.The A100 is 10mp, has Super Anti-Shake in the camera body, has dust removal for the sensor and accepts every Minolta Maxxum AF lens made since 1985. It also accepts many of the Maxxum accessories.The K100D Super is 6.1mp, has Image Stabilization (IS) in the camera body, has dust removal for the sensor, and you can use every K-mount lens made since 1975. Of course the older lenses will be manual focus but they will have the benefit of IS.Since the introduction of the Sony A700 and Pentax K10D the A100 & K100D Super should be dropping in price. However, careful shopping might find the K10D and A700 available for a reasonable price.
Question : What digital slr camera is best for amateur photographers?
I really want a digital slr camera, but I don't want to spend a fortune, I've been looking at used ones, and refurbished but they're all so expensive! I've been manly looking at getting a canon EOS rebel xs. Is that a decent camera? I currently have a canon regular digital camera and I love it.
Answer:
With DSLR's your buying into a system and Canon is far and away the most expensive, closely followed by Nikon.Pentax, Olympus and Sony have many more features. They may be more expensive initially, but a soon as you start adding lenses, flashguns etc. they work out much cheaper for the same or Higher quality. You finish with a much more useful system for less money.Things to look for are a bright viewfinder, good build quality, adjustments of everyday things such as EV value, focus point, metering mode etc. without having to go into a menu. These are basic to using your camera for anything other than 'point and shoot'.Pentax and Sony offer image stabilisation in camera, so every lens you fit is image stabilised without a price premium. Pentax in particular have a massive range of older high quality lenses available for very little, all will be image stabilised.A second hand Pentax DS, which is now 5 years old, would be available at a lower price than a Nikon D40 or Canon Rebel, and is much more of a camera than either of them, it has a genuine pentaprism in the viewfinder which means a brighter image, much better build quality, the same Sony sensor that was used on the Nikon D80. The only downside is the lack of image stabilisation. Like all Pentax DSLR's it can operate as a 'focus trap' which no other make of DSLR can do.Chris
Question : What is a good Digital SLR Camera for someone just moving into SLR cameras and in the cheaper area?
I have been interested in photography for many years and have finally got to the point where I feel a regular digital camera is holding me back from getting good shots. I am hoping to buy a Digital SLR Camera soon, but I do not know much about them to make an informed decision on which one to buy. There are so many choices. What do you recommend? Hopefully something less than $1000 please.
Answer:
Do you want one with video,If yes, I would recommend Canon Rebel T1i.It is a good camera under $1000 that take good picture quality and also take HD videohttp://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001XURPQS?ie=UTF8&tag=computer0bd-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&c reative=390957&creativeASIN=B001XURPQSbut if video is not a factor I would suggest Canon Digital Rebel XSi which cost your around $600 and save your money for another good lenshttp://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0012YA85A?ie=UTF8&tag=computer0bd-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&cr eative=390957&creativeASIN=B0012YA85A
